Humminbird Ethernet Cable – 5 Ft., AS EC 5E
Quick take
The Humminbird AS EC 5E is a 5-foot marine Ethernet cable built to help you connect Ethernet-capable Humminbird units (or connect a control head to a compatible 5-port switch) so you can share sonar, waypoints, and more across the boat network. Buyers tend to like how well it performs once the right ports and networking components are in place, but this cable can be a poor fit if your run needs a different length or if you rely on HELIX or legacy setups that require an adapter.
Pros and cons
Pros
- Designed specifically for networking compatible Humminbird Ethernet-capable units and multi-unit systems.
- Marine-focused build for reliable connections in an on-the-water environment.
- Reviewers report smooth device communication when the Ethernet connection is used correctly.
- Cat 5e cable rated for fast networking (up to 5 Gbps noted on the listing data).
Cons
- Short length (5 ft) may not match your cable-routing needs.
- May require an additional adapter for connecting HELIX and some legacy models, depending on your system.
- Some buyers feel the cable is expensive for what it is.
What buyers think
Buyer-review evidence is strongly positive overall for day-to-day networking reliability and ease of use once installed. Multiple snippets point to dependable communication between Humminbird devices and a smoother integration with other compatible boat equipment when the Ethernet port is used for networking. Reviewers also frequently describe the cable as well made and solidly built. The main recurring hesitation themes are value (a few shoppers consider it pricey for a cable) and practical fit, particularly whether the 5-foot length is enough for their specific layout.
What this cable is for
This 5-foot Ethernet cable is meant for building a Humminbird Ethernet network. Depending on your hardware, it can be used to connect:
- Two compatible Humminbird Ethernet-capable units, for direct multi-unit networking.
- A control head to a compatible 5-port Ethernet switch (AS ETH 5PXG or AS ETH 5PGL), as part of a larger boat network.
Compatibility: who it fits best
This cable is intended to work with Humminbird systems that support Ethernet networking. The most relevant buyer check is whether your exact models have Ethernet-capable ports and whether they are in the supported lineup.
- It’s listed as working with all APEX, XPLORE, SOLIX, and ONIX models.
- It’s also described as working with a wide range of HELIX and legacy models, but there is a key caveat.
- If you are connecting HELIX or legacy models, an AS EC QDE adapter may be required for the connection to work properly.
Key specifications that matter in real installs
- Cable type: Ethernet, Cat 5e class (listed as 5 Gbps data rate, 8 pins).
- Length: 5 feet, which is often enough for close mounting between units, but it can be limiting if you need to route across different consoles or through longer cable paths.
- Connector style: Male-to-female Ethernet cable, built for standard patch-style networking.
- Use environment: The listing indicates indoor and outdoor use, aligning with marine installation expectations.
Pros and cons in plain terms
When the Humminbird AS EC 5E makes sense
- You already have (or are planning) an Ethernet-capable Humminbird setup and need a short, direct link.
- You want to share functionality across the network, such as sonar and waypoints (as supported by your compatible Humminbird system).
- Your boat layout allows a 5-foot run without stretching cable management or risking strain on connectors.
When you might want to look elsewhere
- You need a longer cable run, or you expect to route around obstacles that require extra slack.
- You’re working with HELIX or older models and you are not sure you have the correct adapter for Ethernet networking.
- You’re on a tight accessory budget and feel the premium price for a simple cable is hard to justify.
Alternatives to consider
Since this is a networking accessory with a specific role, the “alternative” decision is mostly about fit:
- Choose the right cable length: If 5 feet is too short, look for a longer Humminbird Ethernet cable so you can route cleanly without forcing connector strain.
- Plan for system-level networking hardware: If you are building a multi-unit network, confirm whether you should use a compatible Ethernet switch (instead of only thinking about direct cable connections).
- Verify adapter needs: If you’re pairing with HELIX or legacy setups, make sure you have the required adapter so the network connection is actually compatible.
Verdict
The Humminbird AS EC 5E is a purpose-built 5-foot Ethernet cable for Humminbird multi-unit networking. It’s a strong pick when your models are Ethernet-capable and your install fits the 5-foot run, with buyer feedback emphasizing dependable communication. If you need a different length, or you are connecting HELIX and legacy gear without the correct adapter, it can become the wrong purchase quickly. For the right system layout, it’s a straightforward way to complete your Ethernet network.
FAQs
Do I need this Humminbird Ethernet cable to network units?
If your Humminbird setup includes Ethernet-capable units (or a compatible switch), this cable is used to physically connect the network segments. If your units are not Ethernet-capable, you may need a different approach for multi-unit networking.
Is the 5-foot length enough for most marine installations?
It depends on your console spacing and routing path. A 5-foot cable is convenient for close links, but if you need to reach across multiple mounting locations, you may prefer a longer cable to avoid tension on connectors.
Does it work with HELIX or legacy Humminbird models?
It’s intended to work with a wide range of HELIX and legacy models, but an adapter (AS EC QDE) may be required for certain connections. If you are using HELIX or older hardware, verify adapter requirements before buying.
What is the data cable rating?
The listing data describes it as a Cat 5e Ethernet cable with a 5 Gbps data rate.
Is this cable worth the price?
Value is most favorable when you have a matching system and a cable run that truly needs a 5-foot Ethernet link. Some buyers consider it pricey for a cable-only accessory, so it’s best to confirm you are buying the correct length and the right networking components (including any needed adapter) before ordering.
Specifications
| Product Title | Humminbird Ethernet Cable – 5 Ft., AS EC 5E |
|---|---|
| Category | Electronics > Car & Vehicle Electronics > Marine Electronics > Marine GPS Accessories |
| Brand | Humminbird |
| Manufacturer | Humminbird |
| Model Name | Ethernet Cable |
| Color | Not Available |
| Item Weight | 6.4 ounces |
| Connector Type | Ethernet Cable |
| Cable Type | Ethernet |
| Compatible Devices | HELIX 7 |
| Other Special Features of the Product | Lightweight |
| Compatible Phone Models | No Compatible Phone Models |
| Ethernet Cable Category | Cat 5e |
| Connector Gender | Male-to-Female |
| Data Transfer Rate | 5 Gigabits Per Second |
| Number of Pins | 8 |
| Connectivity Technology | Ethernet |
| Indoor Outdoor Usage | Indoor, Outdoor |
| Unit Count | 1.0 Count |
| Number of Items | 1 |
| Item Shape | Round |
| Brand Name | Humminbird |
| Customer Package Type | Standard Packaging |
| Model | 720073-6 |
| Item Length | 5 Feet |
| UPC | 082324052347 |
| Global Trade Identification Number | 00082324052347 |
Available variants
Size
- 5 Foot
- 15 Foot
- 30 Foot
- 20 Foot
- 10 Foot
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